K-array Enhances Rabat Ice Hockey Arena with State-of-the-Art Sound System
In a remarkable advancement for live entertainment and sports in Morocco, the newly inaugurated Rabat Ice Hockey Arena has integrated cutting-edge audio technology to create a fully immersive experience for its visitors. This Olympic-sized ice hockey rink not only serves as a premier venue for ice sports but also doubles as a versatile space for various large-scale events. Central to this innovative setup is a high-performance sound system from K-array, designed to deliver exceptional audio clarity and depth throughout the arena.
The project, executed by Cegelec—a subsidiary of VINCI Energies, known for its expertise in engineering and construction—sought to equip the arena with a sound system capable of offering 360-degree audio coverage. This requirement was essential for accommodating diverse event types, including speeches, sports announcements, concerts, and more. The K-array sound system fulfills these aspirations by utilizing a meticulously crafted combination of line array technology, active subwoofers, and integrated digital signal processing (DSP) amplifiers, ensuring that every corner of the venue is enveloped in high-quality sound.
The installation features an impressive array of equipment, including 48 Mugello KH2P I passive line array elements and 16 Thunder KS3 I active subwoofers, all powered by nine Kommander KA208 amplifiers. The KH2P I line array elements are particularly notable for their slim design and advanced Electronic Beam Steering technology, which allows for precise sound directionality and coverage adjustment. This ensures that audiences experience optimal audio quality, regardless of their location within the arena.
The Thunder KS3 I subwoofers complement this setup with robust bass response, utilizing a 21-inch cone driver paired with a powerful DSP amplifier module. The system’s compatibility with the K-array Connect ecosystem enables seamless remote configuration and signal management via a mobile application, further enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the KA208 amplifiers are designed for scalability, allowing for comprehensive control through K-array's professional loudspeaker design software.
Throughout the installation process, K-array's engineering team collaborated closely with Cegelec, providing critical insights into system design, acoustic modeling, on-site setup, and optimization. This partnership was instrumental in overcoming the unique acoustic challenges presented by the arena's design, ensuring full coverage and consistent sound quality for all events hosted within its walls. As Najib Bouskour, director of Axians, emphasized, the precise beam control and high output capabilities of K-array's technology were key to meeting the venue's demanding audio standards.
The successful completion of this project not only showcases the high quality of K-array’s audio solutions but also highlights the Rabat Ice Hockey Arena's commitment to hosting world-class events. Following its recent inauguration, the arena is set to host the 2026 IIHF Men’s Development Cup this June, marking a significant milestone in bringing international ice hockey to Rabat and the African continent for the first time.
As reported by lsionline.com.
